AFL
Jonno Nash & Charlie Happell 6y

Good cop, bad cop: Beveridge's change may force out big Dog

AFL

Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge is changing his style - ditching his 'good guy' reputation in an attempt to get more out of his lacklustre pups.

Beveridge has been brutally honest during his exit interviews with players as he tries to realign the player-coach relationship.

The revered figure and 2016 premiership coach has been critical of almost the entire list following the club's disappointing premiership defence that saw it miss finals.

The issues surrounding Jake Stringer which damaged morale among the playing group have also been a factor in Beveridge's transformation from fatherly mentor to hardened taskmaster in the hope it can elevate his team back to its lofty heights of last season.

But the fallout from one such negative interview is believed to be the cause for big man Tom Campbell seeking greener pastures.

The contracted 26-year-old is exploring his options after a critical reflection of his 2017 campaign.

That, coupled with the recruitment of Port Adelaide's Jack Trengove, who is expected to take the No. 2 ruck mantle at the Whitten Oval, has prompted Campbell to search for increased opportunities elsewhere.

The wantaway ruckman, who has been cruelled by foot and ankle injuries in his six-year, 42-game career, was almost Fremantle-bound last year when he was out of contract.

But officials at the Bulldogs convinced him last season to re-commit to a two-year deal.

The Dockers still have the capacity to lure Campbell following the delistings of Zac Clarke and Jonathon Griffin.

Campbell's manager Scott Lucas did not return calls from ESPN.

^ Back to Top ^